Columbus Blue Jackets Prepare for 2025-26 NHL Season

The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to commence their 25th season in the National Hockey League with training camp opening on September 17, 2025. Players will report for physicals at the OhioHealth McConnell Spine, Sport and Joint Center, followed by fitness testing at Nationwide Arena. The first on-ice practices will take place on September 18, with subsequent sessions held at the OhioHealth Ice Haus, all of which are open to the public. The training camp roster includes 56 players: 30 forwards, 20 defensemen, and six goaltenders, divided into two groups for practices running until September 27. The Blue Jackets will kick off their preseason schedule on September 21 against the St. Louis Blues.

Blue Jackets announce schedule, roster for 2025 training camp, presented by OhioHealthWeekly Primer: Prospects in Buffalo; training camp opensBlue Jackets Need To Be Better On Road In 2025-26Blue Jackets Will Re-Invite A Few Rookies To Training CampDenton Mateychuk, Four Others Injured To Start Blue Jackets Training CampColumbus Blue Jackets Face Injury Setbacks at Training CampBlue Jackets' training camp roster features 56 players, here's what stands out

Heading into the new season, the Blue Jackets are optimistic about their playoff prospects. Center Adam Fantilli expressed confidence, stating, “We expect to make the playoffs, and if we don’t, it’s going to feel like a failure.” Alternate captain Zach Werenski echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the team has a roster capable of competing for a playoff spot. The Blue Jackets are bolstered by a mix of emerging young talent, including Fantilli, Kirill Marchenko, and Kent Johnson, alongside a veteran core featuring Boone Jenner and Zach Werenski. Head coach Dean Evason has instilled a culture of accountability, with the team aiming to improve upon last season's near-miss playoff run.

As camp begins, Blue Jackets have eyes on taking the next step

However, the Blue Jackets face significant injury challenges as training camp begins. Top defense prospect Denton Mateychuk is recovering from a groin injury and will be eased into camp. Other players, including forwards Jordan Dumais and Max McCue, are also dealing with day-to-day injuries, while Owen Sillinger is out of contact drills due to a knee injury. These setbacks may influence the team's dynamics and roster decisions as they prepare for the season.

Columbus Blue Jackets Face Injury Setbacks at Training CampDenton Mateychuk, Four Others Injured To Start Blue Jackets Training CampBlue Jackets Will Re-Invite A Few Rookies To Training CampWeekly Primer: Prospects in Buffalo; training camp opensAs camp begins, Blue Jackets have eyes on taking the next stepBlue Jackets' training camp roster features 56 players, here's what stands outBlue Jackets announce schedule, roster for 2025 training camp, presented by OhioHealth

Evason's coaching philosophy emphasizes consistent preparation regardless of the opponent. He stated, “The Stanley Cup is our expectation... Our expectations are to have a great season, make the playoffs, and then we want to win the first round and then move forward.” The team aims to improve its road performance, having struggled last season with a 14-23-4 record away from Nationwide Arena. Evason noted that enhancing special teams could be crucial for achieving better results on the road.

As camp begins, Blue Jackets have eyes on taking the next step

As the Columbus Blue Jackets embark on their training camp, the focus remains on building a competitive team capable of returning to the playoffs. With a blend of youth and experience, the organization is determined to overcome previous disappointments and establish a successful campaign. The upcoming weeks will be critical as the team navigates injuries and finalizes its roster, setting the stage for the 2025-26 NHL season.

Columbus Blue Jackets Face Injury Setbacks at Training Camp

• “I couldn’t be more excited,” — Adam Fantilli, Center

As camp begins, Blue Jackets have eyes on taking the next step

• “It's the same rhetoric every year, but this year I genuinely feel like if we’re not a playoff team, it’s a failure for this group.” — Zach Werenski, Alternate Captain

As camp begins, Blue Jackets have eyes on taking the next step

• “The Stanley Cup is our expectation,” — Dean Evason, Head Coach

As camp begins, Blue Jackets have eyes on taking the next step

• “But 100%, to win the Stanley Cup, you have to make the playoffs.” — Don Waddell, President and General Manager

The Plain Dealer